Sydney Ridley brings years of legislative and political experience to Southern Strategy Group's Tampa Bay office. Sydney spent the past four years as the Chief Legislative Aide to House Majority Leader Dana Young, where she directed all priority policy and budget initiatives. Sydney's time as staff was at the highest level of the Florida House of Representatives, and she brings unmatched relationships with legislative staff, agency heads, and elected officials.

A political pro in Tampa Bay with extensive campaign management experience, Sydney guided Senator Dana Young to successive electoral victories in the Florida House and spearheaded her subsequent election to the Florida Senate. Sydney's political expertise, particularly in the Tampa Bay area, serves as a great strategic asset to our clients. In addition to her work with Senator Young, Sydney has served as both a political director and a field director on various Congressional and State Senate campaigns.

Born and raised in Tampa, Sydney is a third-generation Floridian, a graduate of the University of Virginia, a Florida Gator at heart, and a lover of history, golf, music, and football.

RUTH H. WHITNEY is the founder and CEO of inVeritas. Ruth serves as a strategic advisor to clients based on over 25 years of expertise in law, government, politics and public opinion. She has been privileged to advise Global 500 companies, prominent professional services firms, state and federal governments, law firms, nonprofit corporations and industry associations.

Ruth earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. She is a member of the Arkansas Bar Association and is admitted to practice in Arkansas and the U.S. District Courts in Arkansas. Ruth has also been admitted pro hac vice in various jurisdictions in the course of her service as a national jury consultant.

Before founding inVeritas, Ruth built and managed the Arkansas office of Global Strategy Group where she specialized in executing winning campaigns in the public and private sectors. Prior to joining GSG, Ruth served as counsel and chief of staff to Attorney General Mike Beebe and developed professional relationships with attorneys general across the country. Ruth has extensive legal and management experience, including over 10 years as a healthcare and administrative lawyer with the Arkansas Department of Human Services and as Counsel to Mitchell, Williams, Selig, Gates & Woodyard.

Ruth has served as a guest writer to Talk Business and currently serves on a number of boards of directors including the Little Rock Chamber of Commerce; Arkansas Cinema Society; Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance; New Design School; and Little Red River Foundation. Ruth serves on the advisory board of NanoMech Inc., a nanomanufacturing innovation and product development firm. She also serves her state and community as a member of Leadership Arkansas, Accelerate Arkansas and the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce.

20+ years

Jim is a highly accomplished senior executive, consultant, lobbyist and strategist with over 30 years of success in public policy, politics, government, energy, healthcare, financial services, transportation, state budget, local government, education and the nonprofit sector. Over the course of his career he has spearheaded legislation that has resulted in robust energy development, broader access to public k-12 education, enriched opportunities for higher education, higher air and water quality standards, major investments in transportation, and a healthy balance of power between the state and local governments.

Jim immerses himself in learning about his clients' needs and can put complex issues into relatable terms. He moves people to understand issues first and then support the policies he is advancing. It is because of this strategy and his leadership on oil and gas issues that he was presented with the Denver Business Journal's "Who's Who in Energy" award in 2017.

Some of Jim's highest accomplishments include creating the Arkansas River State Park, passing the Clean Air Clean Jobs Act and passing the Colorado School of Mines (CSM) Exemplary Institution Act, which enabled CSM to provide one of the highest quality and rigorous research experiences in the nation.

Jim has a Bachelor's of Science degree from Oregon State University. He has been married 38 years and he and his wife, Mary, have two adult children. Jim is an avid cyclist and has completed nine years of Ride the Rockies and Iowa's RAGBRAI. He also loves to fly fish and play guitar. His joy is seeing the humor that presents itself in everyday situations and sharing it whenever possible.

Brian Bautista advocates on behalf of his clients before the legislative and executive branches of Florida government and has experience acting as statewide spokesman and point of contact for clients. Brian has resided in Florida's capital city for over a decade, and his work spans the gambit from local initiatives to a statewide Senate campaign.

Brian received both a bachelor's degree in political science and a law degree from Florida State University. Brian uses his legal expertise and political acumen to successfully represent clients on some of the highest profile issues in Florida, in the technology, education, healthcare, and energy industries.

Brian has been named one of Florida's 30 Under 30 by Florida Politics and a NextGeneration Rising Star by Influence Magazine

0-5 years

Leadership Iowa Graduate

Nick is an experienced government relations, public affairs, and public relations professional with a successful history of executing lobbying and issue campaigns. He began his journey in the political arena at a young age and has had the opportunity to work a number of political campaigns at the local, state, congressional, and even presidential level.

Nick's career has included leading extensive public affairs issue campaigns, communications and public relations efforts, and marketing campaigns across the Midwest and country influencing state and federal policymakers and garnering media attention. He also spent a couple of sessions being fully immersed in the legislative process while working for a committee chairman in the Iowa House.

These diverse experiences have all culminated in Nick's successful ability to execute strategic plans to introduce, pass, block, or amend legislation at the Iowa Statehouse for clients and build strong relationships with lawmakers and stakeholders. From legislative agenda development and interim planning to PAC management and issue campaigns, Nick specializes in elevating a client's message and executing legislative strategies. Nick also leads Advocacy Strategies' administrative rulemaking engagement and media relations efforts on behalf of our clients.

Nick grew up in Byron, MN and made his way to Iowa through Simpson College's John C. Culver Public Policy Center where he was selected as a Fellow. He graduated Simpson with the highest academic honor with majors in Political Science and International Relations and a minor in Religious Studies and also received his Master's Degree in Public Policy and a Graduate Certificate in Public Administration from the University of Northern Iowa.

Outside of work, Nick is actively involved in his church community, local political activism, the Simpson College Alumni Association Board, and serves as the President of the John C. Culver Public Policy Center Alumni Association. He graduated from Leadership Iowa, the state's premier professional leadership development program, in June of 2022.

Before joining Cornerstone, Frank Chiodo most recently served as Deputy Secretary of State under Iowa Secretary of State Michael Mauro. While with the Iowa Department of Economic Development, Frank worked closely with Governor Tom Vilsack and Lieutenant Governor Sally Pederson to secure passage of the Iowa Values Fund, the largest and most successful economic development program in state history.

Frank also worked on Senator Tom Harkin's 2002 Senate campaign, and in 1999-2000 helped Vice President Al Gore secure a victory in the Iowa Caucuses.

Frank served in the Iowa House of Representatives representing District 67 in Des Moines from 1997 through 2003. He was ranking member of the Commerce Committee and elected as the minority whip.

In 2017, Frank was recognized by the Iowa General Assembly as a Pioneer Lawmaker.

20+ years

Kyle G. Michel is a Columbia, SC lawyer-lobbyist specializing in government policy and related law. His background is primarily in lobbying and providing guidance to clients interacting with state and federal government, which he has done since 1994. Mr. Michel also represents clients before local government bodies in South Carolina. He has considerable experience in budget, energy, economic development, and education issues, but also works in other issue areas including criminal justice, healthcare, environment, and transportation. In addition to policy advocacy, he represents clients seeking government contracts for goods and services.Mr. Michel is retained to execute advocacy projects on behalf of clients. This work involves developing policy strategies, direct advocacy with government officials, drafting policy documents, and legislative drafting. Mr. Michel is also retained to provide counsel on policy and political forecasting. This work involves monitoring policy and political developments and advising clients on likely outcomes that affect their interests. Prior to forming Kyle Michel Law Firm in South Carolina in 2003, Mr. Michel was Vice President and General Counsel of Morgan Meguire, LLC, a lobbying firm in Washington, DC. He founded the firm with a partner in 1998 and expanded it to a twelve-person practice before relocating to South Carolina. At Morgan Meguire, he lobbied on behalf of clients before Congress, the White House, and executive branch departments and agencies. From 1993 to 1998, Mr. Michel practiced at the firm today known as Dentons in Washington, DC, specializing in federal government affairs. He represented Fortune 100 companies on policy matters in Congress and at the White House.Prior to practicing law, Mr. Michel worked as a Legislative Assistant in the U.S. Senate and in the White House as an advisor on personnel matters. Mr. Michel is a member of the South Carolina and Washington, DC, Bars. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Texas A&M University. He graduated with honors from the University of Tennessee School of Law. He and his wife Melanie have four children and live in Columbia.

20+ years

By any yardstick, Aaron Read and Associates is recognized as one of the premier lobbying firms in Sacramento. Whether it's based on annual billings or word of mouth referrals, ARA is at the top of the list. In addition, ARA has been listed as one of the top-ranked lobby firms in Capitol Weekly, a well-known publication, since they started their rankings 10 years ago.

Aaron Read and Associates' (ARA) services run the gamut of all types and aspects of Governmental Representation including the Administration, the Legislature and each of its committees, and regulatory agencies. In addition, ARA provides consulting on government procurement issues. Our sister company, Marketplace Communications, provides a full range of public affairs services including social media, campaigns, video and audio productions, and strategy to achieve your goals. Marketplace Communications has won numerous Pollie Awards from the American Association of Political Consultants.

Patrick Moran comes with over 20 years of lobbying and legislative experience. He served as Special Consultant to Speaker Herb Wesson and Speaker Fabian Nunez where he worked on public safety, retirement and labor issues.Prior to joining the Speakers office, Patrick was chief lobbyist for the California State Firefighters' Association (CSFA) where he was responsible for the governmental affairs of the organization, both legislative and political. Patrick also lobbied for the Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC), local governments, the State Association of County Retirement Systems (SACRS) and the California Treasurers and Tax Collectors Association.As a result of his diverse work experiences, Patrick has worked for Aaron Read & Associates on a variety of issues including, but not limited to; the state budget, labor, retirement, workers compensation, local government and public safety. He has also worked on a variety of candidate campaigns as well as on statewide ballot measures. While not at work, Patrick enjoys spending time with his wife and four kids.

ARA is unique. We represent numerous firefighters, law enforcement and labor groups, as well as fortune 500 companies, corporations and large trade associations. As a result of our diverse client base, we build relationships with Democratic and Republican lawmakers during their campaigns, long before they are elected to office

FRANCIS X. MCMAHON, ESQ., the founder and president of Advocacy Solutions, has deep expertise in ally development, grassroots and grasstops coalition building, strategic communications management, and online advocacy for clients in a wide range of industries including healthcare, telecommunications, energy, and transportation.

Over the course of his career, Frank has been a key staff member and advisor on many winning political and issue campaigns. He served as Special Counsel and Deputy Chief of Staff to Rhode Island Governor Bruce Sundlun and has led campaigns for Honda Motor Corporation, Verizon, and National Grid.

An avid Friar basketball fan, Frank is a graduate of Providence College, Suffolk University Law School, and a member of the Rhode Island State and Federal Bar Association.

20+ years

Alton Ashy established Advanced Strategies nearly two decades ago. As the firm's president, Alton brings a wealth of knowledge, a strong work ethic and sharp business insight to his projects. He began his professional career as a legislative staffer working for both the Louisiana Senate and House of Representatives and quickly transitioned into governmental relations representing clients including Louisiana State University. Alton's ability to quickly assess an issue and develop a winning legislative strategy has helped Advanced Strategies achieve great success for its clients over the years.

20+ years

City Council Member, Windsor Heights

Leadership Iowa

Licensed Foster Parent

As President and CEO of Advocacy Strategies, Threase is responsible for the firm's overall business operations and strategy for delivering results. She has been serving clients before the Iowa Legislature for nearly 30 years. This experience has provided her with intimate knowledge of the legislative process and long-standing solid relationships with policymakers, staff, and key opinion leaders across the state. This allows her to tailor a strategy to meet the individual needs of our clients that deliver the best value to you. Advocacy Strategies' clients realize results when working with our team whether with a controversial legislative issue, securing and maintaining state appropriations, or working to find compromise to move issues forward.

In addition to lobbying, Threase has spent more than two decades developing and implementing successful public affairs and grassroots campaigns of all sizes from national campaigns across the country to smaller campaigns in Iowa communities. Her wealth of expertise in this area affords Advocacy Strategies a strong network of relationships with legislative and community leaders and a unique skill set in developing successful and innovative strategies to achieve policy goals that few firms can offer.

Threase started her lobbying career at the University of Northern Iowa as a student, then went on to work in the Iowa Senate on education issues before her employment with the American Cancer Society. From there, she took the position of Director of the Tobacco Use Prevention and Control division within the Iowa Department of Public Health, giving her the opportunity to use her passion to protect families from the hardships of illness and death from tobacco use. With multiple successes in the non-profit sector, Pfizer recruited her to be part of the Worldwide Alliance Development team. She has been an independent government relations contractor for 20 years helping organizations of all types and sizes.

Threase earned a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Iowa State University but remains loyal to her undergraduate alma mater the University of Northern Iowa where she received her Bachelor's Degree in Communication Studies while serving as Student Body President. She also serves as an elected member of the Windsor Heights City Council and on many advisory committees and community organizations.

Threase and her husband, Rick live in Windsor Heights. They have four children and are avid cyclists and licensed foster parents.

David Browning is one of Florida's top political campaign operatives. David has worked with Florida's most powerful elected officials and brings a new dimension to Southern Strategy Group's team of lobbyists in Tallahassee. David was instrumental in raising millions of dollars for campaign war chests in the 2010 election cycle for Governor Rick Scott. David also worked for Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater and Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam and set fundraising records for those campaigns. Fundraiser, strategist, and confidante, David is among a handful of insiders who help guide candidates to victory in Florida.

David has been equally busy helping the legislative branch. David served as the chief fundraiser for Speaker Dean Cannon. David's responsibilities included raising money for Speaker Cannon's personal campaign, as well as working with House leadership to raise money for the House Republican Caucus. Through these efforts, the Florida House returned 81 republican members giving them a supermajority.

In the Florida Senate David represented Senate President Mike Haridopolos and Senate Majority Leader Andy Gardiner. David worked with Senator John Thrasher who was elected in a highly contested special election. David brings his unique expertise to the Tallahassee team and offers our clients unprecedented insight into the workings of state government.

David is a graduate of Florida State University with a degree in Political Science.

0-5 years

U.S. Senate; U.S. House of Representatives; Illinois Department of Transportation

Before joining the firm, Greg Bales worked for U.S. Senate Majority Whip Richard J. Durbin for more than a decade, serving as senior advisor in the Senator's government office as well as his campaign manager for his 2020 reelection. During his time with the Senator, he oversaw special projects throughout Illinois, and worked as a liaison to elected officials, businesses, community organizations, and other constituencies across the state.

Prior to joining Senator Durbin's staff, Greg worked as a policy advisor for the Illinois Department of Transportation. He was a staffer for former Illinois Congresswoman Debbie Halvorson, and he has worked on numerous political campaigns in California, Illinois, and Indiana. Before managing Senator Durbin's recent reelection, Greg took leave to elect Illinois Congressman Sean Casten to his first term in 2018, and served as Illinois state director for Secretary Hillary Clinton's 2016 Presidential campaign.

Greg's relationships span across the state, including the Illinois Congressional delegation, the Illinois General Assembly, City of Chicago, Cook County government, and in numerous municipalities and local units of government. Greg has concentrated on infrastructure funding, economic development, and earmarks. He has worked with Illinois General Assembly leadership on legislative language to ensure millions of dollars in federal funding for election security were allocated to cybersecurity; managed multi-million-dollar campaign budgets; pitched stories and gone on the record with the media; and lobbied for state funding for public transit.

20+ years

By any yardstick, Aaron Read and Associates is recognized as one of the premier lobbying firms in Sacramento. Whether it's based on annual billings or word of mouth referrals, ARA is at the top of the list. In addition, ARA has been listed as one of the top-ranked lobby firms in Capitol Weekly, a well-known publication, since they started their rankings 10 years ago.

Aaron Read and Associates' (ARA) services run the gamut of all types and aspects of Governmental Representation including the Administration, the Legislature and each of its committees, and regulatory agencies. In addition, ARA provides consulting on government procurement issues. Our sister company, Marketplace Communications, provides a full range of public affairs services including social media, campaigns, video and audio productions, and strategy to achieve your goals. Marketplace Communications has won numerous Pollie Awards from the American Association of Political Consultants.

Terry has worked at Aaron Read & Associates for more than two decades. Prior to joining ARA, he served as the Director of the California Fire Foundation and Consultant to the California Assembly Committee on Fire, Police and Emergency Services. In 2009, he was awarded the Director's Achievement Award on behalf of CAL FIRE. He led the successful campaign to develop the CAL FIRE brand.

Terry McHale was the press liaison for the California Assembly Committee on Police, Fire and Disaster. There, he handled crisis management in the MTBE campaign, and has expertise in public policy and strategic communications. Terry is currently an officer at Aaron Read & Associates as well as Marketplace Communications. He also serves as the editor of California Conversations Magazine. He has interviewed and written stories about such interesting Californians as Clint Eastwood, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Harrison Ford, Gary Condit, Governor Pete Wilson and Governor Gray Davis. Terence graduated from UCLA. He lives his family in Elk Grove.

ARA is unique. We represent numerous firefighters, law enforcement and labor groups, as well as fortune 500 companies, corporations and large trade associations. As a result of our diverse client base, we build relationships with Democratic and Republican lawmakers during their campaigns, long before they are elected to office.

11-15 years

Garin began her political career in Washington D.C. working for Senator Wayne Allard and ran the government affairs department at Colorado Farm Bureau before joining Colorado Legislative Services in 2007. She became partner in 2012 and steadfastly through her career, Garin has honed her policy knowledge on issues related to agriculture, including water and property rights. She also is highly skilled as a strategist for higher education, business, liquor, and state licensure issues.

Growing up on a ranch in southwest Colorado gave Garin a strong work ethic and her dedication to understanding an issue completely shows up when representing CLS clients. Her adeptness in many policy areas and direct manner of speaking means that she is a trusted resource for legislators on both sides of the aisle. She is regarded as a top water policy expert in Colorado and has been recognized for her work bolstering the Colorado business climate by working to align agriculture and energy-- two of the top five drivers of the Colorado economy--on a variety of issues. Garin was recognized as one of Colorado's "Top Women in Energy" by the Denver Business Journal in 2017.

She is a proud graduate of Colorado State University where she earned an Agricultural Business degree. Garin has completed Colorado Farm Bureau's Elite Leaders Academy, is a member of the Women's Energy Network of Colorado and has served on the Colorado Agricultural Leadership Program board and Butterfly Pavilion's Fund Development Committee.

In her free time, Garin cherishes time with her husband and two daughters, especially during trips to the mountains. She is an avid reader, sous-chef for her husband and wine connoisseur who frequents the Napa Valley.

20+ years

By any yardstick, Aaron Read and Associates is recognized as one of the premier lobbying firms in Sacramento. Whether it's based on annual billings or word of mouth referrals, ARA is at the top of the list. In addition, ARA has been listed as one of the top-ranked lobby firms in Capitol Weekly, a well-known publication, since they started their rankings 10 years ago.

Aaron Read and Associates' (ARA) services run the gamut of all types and aspects of Governmental Representation including the Administration, the Legislature and each of its committees, and regulatory agencies. In addition, ARA provides consulting on government procurement issues. Our sister company, Marketplace Communications, provides a full range of public affairs services including social media, campaigns, video and audio productions, and strategy to achieve your goals. Marketplace Communications has won numerous Pollie Awards from the American Association of Political Consultants.

Aaron Read has been a legislative advocate for more than forty-five years. He began his career in the late 1960s after he obtained a Master's Degree in Business Administration (MBA) and went to work for a large statewide association. Aaron formed Aaron Read & Associates (ARA) in 1978. ARA has grown into one of the most influential lobbying firms in California. The select list of clients covers a broad spectrum and allows the firm an opportunity to work with the entire political spectrum. Aaron has a unique perspective of what works and what doesn't in government and counsels clients on effective strategies to achieve their goals. Aaron has extensive experience in all phases of political work, including lobbying extremely complex and controversial issues, public relations and coalition building, as well as constitutional offices, legislative and initiative campaigns. Aaron also has special expertise in creating and managing large political action committees. Aaron is a lifelong pilot, has a lifetime teaching credential and is also a former graduate-level instructor in business and public administration at Golden Gate University. He enjoys spending time with his family, golf, SCUBA diving and other water sports and real estate investments when not walking the Capitol halls. ARA is unique. We represent numerous firefighters, law enforcement as well as fortune 500 companies like AT&T and 3M and large trade associations. As a result of our diverse client base, we build relationships with Democratic and Republican lawmakers during their campaigns, long before they are elected to office.

Greg is a former Chief of Staff for the Ohio Senate Democratic Caucus; a Legislative Analyst for the Office of the President Pro Tem of the Columbus City Council; and a legislative aide with the Ohio Senate. Following law school, Greg also participated in Americorps' Legal Service Corps, practicing eviction defense for clients in Northwest Ohio as an attorney with Advocates for Basic Legal Equality located in Toledo.

20+ years

Melanie joined CLS in 2000 and has nearly 25 years of expertise in public policy, lobbying, business, banking, bioscience and renewable energy. She enjoys working on complex economic development and tax policy, and has one of highest success rates passing incentives for varied industry sectors. She also has experience effectively lobbying k-12 education, capital development and healthcare. Melanie's strong network of relationships with legislators, as well as influencers in the government and public policy arena, ensures CLS' clients have unparalleled access to policy leaders.

Before beginning her lobbying career, Melanie was the Public Relations Director for the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association, then moved into lobbying as the Legislative Director at Colorado Farm Bureau, while obtaining a Master's from University of Colorado Denver's Graduate School of Public Affairs. Prior to that, she received her Bachelor's from Colorado Christian University. Melanie is a state board member of Girls on the Run and has served as an assistant instructor at the Colorado Mountain Club's High Altitude Mountaineering School.

Melanie is a married mother to three children and an extreme athlete. Her noteworthy accomplishments include finishing the Leadville 100 Ultra-Marathon, climbing all 58 of Colorado's mountains over 14,000', along with numerous high-altitude mountains around the world. Her current athletic focus is Pack Burro Racing, Colorado's official heritage sport, with her two rescued burros. Her dedication to these endeavors translates to the vision, planning and execution it takes to succeed in politics and advocacy.

0-5 years

Logan Spence is a Partner at the Austin office of Hance Scarborough, LLP where he represents trade associations, corporations and interest groups before the state legislature and agencies. Logan began his career in state government in 1999 as an intern for State Senator Robert Duncan. In 2001, he worked as the legislative assistant to State Rep. Warren Chisum. While attending law school in Houston, Logan worked for Harris County Judge Robert Eckels, District Judge Harvey Brown and the government affairs office of El Paso Energy.

Upon graduating from law school, he spent five years as a Policy Director in Gov. Rick Perry's Office of Budget, Planning and Policy covering a wide variety of issues and agencies. Logan moved to the Texas State Senate in 2007 where he served as Sen. Dan Patrick's Chief of Staff.

In 2013, Logan served as the manager for Dan Patrick's campaign for lieutenant governor. This ultimately successful effort, against three established statewide incumbents, gave Logan first-hand experience in political communications, grassroots management and campaign strategy. After leading the transition team, Logan was named Chief of Staff to the Lieutenant Governor in 2015.

Logan's broad experience in the Texas House, Texas Senate as well as the Office's of Governor and Lt. Governor, give him a unique ability to advocate for his clients in Texas government. Logan earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications from Texas Tech University and a Juris Doctorate degree from South Texas College of Law. He has been married to his wife Cynthia for over 20 years and they have four children.

Matt Hinch brings over a decade of experience in state and federal government and as a well-respected campaign and political strategist. Most recently, Matt served as chief of staff to Governor Terry Branstad and Lt. Governor Kim Reynolds, where he oversaw the day-to-day operations of the State of Iowa's executive branch and the Governor's office. In addition, he served as the chief policy and political advisor to the Governor leading successful legislative efforts to strengthen Iowa's infrastructure, improve workforce training and reduce student debt.

Prior to his role in the Governor's office, Hinch served as the senior vice president of government relations and public policy for the Greater Des Moines Partnership, Iowa's largest chamber of commerce representing 21 affiliate chambers throughout the State and 5,300 business members. While at the Partnership, Hinch developed the concept and spearheaded the successful passage of the Iowa Reinvestment Act, a creative funding strategy bringing $100 million in resources to spur development into Iowa communities. Hinch was also influential in building support for the largest property tax reduction for all classes of property in Iowa's history and the Governor's historic education reform initiative, which has been recognized nationally by education organizations and the U.S. Department of Education for its innovative Teacher Leadership and Compensation plan.

Previously, Hinch served as chief of staff to Iowa House Speaker Kraig Paulsen. As the top aide to Paulsen, Matt was instrumental in assisting the Speaker and the House Republican Caucus as they successfully worked to eliminate a $900 million budget shortfall.

Hinch also served as legislative director and campaign manager for Congressman Tom Latham. With Latham, Hinch managed the Congressman's legislative portfolio and his work on several House Appropriations subcommittees, assisting the Congressman in securing millions of dollars for his Iowa constituents. He also led two successful grassroots re-election efforts for Latham, including a 21-point victory in 2008.

Matt is involved in a variety of local community initiatives including the Every Student, Every Day, Dowling Catholic High School Annual Appeal. Matt is also an active member in the Iowa State Blue Ribbon Foundation, an organization that works to promote and enhance activities for Iowa youth at the world-renowned Iowa State Fair. Matt is a contributor to the University of Iowa Foundation and the University of Iowa Athletics Department.

Matt holds a B.A. in Communications, a minor in Political Science and a certificate in Entrepreneurship from the Henry Tippie College of Business, all at the University of Iowa. A native of Des Moines, Matt resides in West Des Moines with his wife and two children.

20+ years

Tim provided a long sought-after voice to retirees in the Retired Detroit Police & Fire Fighters Association. He and his team successfully fought unions, the City of Detroit, and the pension board's opposition to amend decades-old state law. The association spent 25 years trying to obtain representation on its pension board through litigation and city charter amendment to no avail. Tim and his team did it in a fraction of the time.

Prior to becoming president of MLC, Tim was appointed as Governor John Engler's Campaign Manager to manage his 1998 re-election campaign, after having worked in the Governor's office as Director of External Affairs and Deputy Director of Public Affairs. Former positions also included stints in the Michigan House and Senate, Oakland County government and Senior Director of Government Affairs of the Michigan Credit Union League.

15-20 years

Top Group of Lobbyists and Rising Star in James Magazine

One of four original BR Professionals to support Gov Brian Kemp, strong ties to House/Senate Appropriations, Healthcare and Leadership, Great Relationships with executive agencies and constitutional offices

With decades of political experience working in the State of Georgia and Washington, D.C., Jason Broce owns and leads Terminus South, a government affairs firm representing clients in the construction, education, entertainment and film, healthcare, information technology, tax, telecommunications, and retail industries. Broce has developed strong relationships with local government officials, legislators at the state and federal levels, statewide elected officers, and Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, for whom he served as a campaign policy advisor and a member of the Inaugural Executive Committee. Broce has extensive expertise analyzing policy, drafting legislation, navigating budget development and procurement, and working with regulatory entities on behalf of his clients.

Jason has held two previous positions in government affairs working in-house for Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and the Georgia Health Care Association. Some of his most proud accomplishments are creating an Assisted Living licensure category to allow for elderly Georgians to age in place and funding increase for kids with disabilities to stay at home in a comfortable environment and avoid costly hospital stays.

Originally from Roswell, Georgia, Jason and his wife, Candice, live in Cherokee County with their sons, Beau and Jack, and three rescue dogs. He graduated with honors from Piedmont University in Demorest, Georgia. The Broce family also runs a cattle farm and event venue in Bartow County.

Sara Allen joined Cornerstone in September 2016. Sara brings over five years of healthcare experience, as well as years spent lobbying, developing and executing policy positions, engaging grassroots advocates, and assisting with political action committee campaigns and endorsements. Sara assists clients throughout the legislative and rule-making process, focusing on health care and state government concerns.

Most recently, Sara worked as a state lobbyist and staff attorney working for the Iowa Hospital Association, representing all 118 Iowa hospitals at the statehouse and various administrative agencies. In this position, Sara gained expertise in a variety of areas impacting hospitals and other health care providers; these areas include financing and reimbursement, behavioral health, value-based healthcare delivery reform models, informational technology innovation, regulatory and legal compliance, scope of practice concerns for specific providers, public body concerns, and public health initiatives.

Before her position at the Iowa Hospital Association, Sara worked for a physician staffing company as associate corporate counsel. In that role, she was responsible for maintaining the corporation's business compliance, contract drafting and enforcement, and managing the human resources function.

Sara received her juris doctorate from Drake University in December 2010 and was admitted to the Iowa Bar in April 2011. Prior to Drake, Sara received her Business Administration degree from Grand View University. In addition to her formal education, Sara received her private pilot's license in 2005 and enjoys recreational flying.

Sara lives in Des Moines with her husband Colby and her three young children, Briar, Blake, and Boone.

Energy Bar Association, Member
Vermont Law Review, Member
U.S. Trade Representative, Kentucky Point of Contact, 2006 --Present

Kentucky Office of Energy Policy, Frankfort, KY, Executive Director, 2005
Kentucky Public Service Commission, Frankfort, KY, General Counsel/Policy Advisor, 2004 - 2005
US House of Representatives, Committee on Energy and Commerce, Washington, D.C., Majority Counsel, 1999 - 2004
United States Department of Justice, Environment & Natural Resources Division, Washington, D.C., Law Clerk, 1999
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, Rome, Italy, Visiting Scholar, 1998

STEPHEN M. DEFRANK is a senior advisor in Buchanan's state government relations group. He joins Buchanan after spending 23 years of his career in Pennsylvania state government. His most recent position was chief of staff for Senator Lisa M. Boscola.

Steve brings process and policy expertise to our Pennsylvania Government Relations Practice, having worked in state government for more than 20 years. He has served in several roles in his over two decades with the Senate of Pennsylvania, including chief of staff, committee executive director, and policy director. Steve called on his strengths differently in each of those roles: as a chief of staff for Sen. Lisa Boscola, he used his organizational skills and ability to multitask to advance the senator's legislative agenda in Harrisburg and manage constituent outreach and communications in her district office. As Executive Director for the Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee, Steve grasped new concepts quickly and effectively, and developed an area of expertise in issues affecting the energy and utility sectors. As Policy Director, he worked as a jack of all trades to advance a caucus-wide agenda that included initiatives related to legalized gaming, community and economic development, workforce development, education initiatives and government reform.

0-5 years

Roger Manno has received numerous awards and recognitions, including by the Metropolitan Washington Employment Lawyers Association, United States Department of Defense, Maryland Anesthesiologists Association, Maryland Consumer Rights Coalition, Fraternal Order of Police (Maryland State Lodge), International Association of Fire Fighters (Local 1664), Adventist Columbia Union Conference, Plumbers and Gasfitters United Association (Local 5), and International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (Local 26). Twice awarded Legislator of the Year by Maryland Building and Construction Trades Council (AFL-CIO), Roger also has the unique distinction of being named an honorary member of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 26, and is a Journeyman member of Steamfitters United Association Local 602.

Former Maryland Senator Roger Manno is an attorney and legislative and regulatory architect who has spent decades in government service, working in the White House, on the U.S. House Judiciary Committee, as Legislative Director and Senior Counsel to members of Congress, and as an elected member of the Maryland House and senior member of the Maryland Senate. As Senate Chairman of both the Spending Affordability Committee and the "AELR" regulatory committee (Administrative, Executive and Legislative Review), Roger advanced reforms that streamlined and strengthened Maryland's regulatory processes, and authored landmark structural reforms that fundamentally transformed Maryland's budget forecasting, revenues, and overall baseline spending. As Senate Majority Whip, Roger worked to build strong voting majorities in order to advance a disciplined legislative agenda across the State of Maryland. An attorney admitted to practice in Maryland, the District of Columbia, the Supreme Court of the United States, the U.S. Court of Appeals for Armed Forces, and other federal courts, Roger served as Of Counsel to the general practice / civil litigation law firm of Karp, Frosh, Lapidus, Wigodsky & Norwind, P.A., during the period when (now) Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh served as a named Partner. Roger's consulting portfolio consists is broad, with concentrations in appropriations, infrastructure, and labor and workforce development, energy, and finance. Roger's legal practice includes service on behalf of indigent defendants as a Maryland Judiciary Court Appointed Attorney. He holds a joint Juris Doctor / Masters of Intellectual Property Law degree.

20+ years

By any yardstick, Aaron Read and Associates is recognized as one of the premier lobbying firms in Sacramento. Whether it's based on annual billings or word of mouth referrals, ARA is at the top of the list. In addition, ARA has been listed as one of the top-ranked lobby firms in Capitol Weekly, a well-known publication, since they started their rankings 10 years ago.

Aaron Read and Associates' (ARA) services run the gamut of all types and aspects of Governmental Representation including the Administration, the Legislature and each of its committees, and regulatory agencies. In addition, ARA provides consulting on government procurement issues. Our sister company, Marketplace Communications, provides a full range of public affairs services including social media, campaigns, video and audio productions, and strategy to achieve your goals. Marketplace Communications has won numerous Pollie Awards from the American Association of Political Consultants.

Steve Baker joined ARA in 1990 and represents several professional groups and corporations. Prior to coming to Aaron Read & Associates, Steve had an executive role with a labor-management consulting firm headquartered in Sacramento. He has been involved in all aspects of association development, including membership recruitment, public relations, coalition building, and representational activities.Steve specializes in working on energy, utility, labor, transportation, regulatory and environmental issues. He also has extensive experience in working on the State Budget. Steve has worked in a variety of candidate campaigns as well as on statewide ballot measures. He is highly respected for both his lobbying skills and his ability to articulate verbally and in writing the concerns of our clients.

ARA is unique. We represent numerous firefighters, law enforcement and labor groups, as well as fortune 500 companies, corporations and large trade associations. As a result of our diverse client base, we build relationships with Democratic and Republican lawmakers during their campaigns, long before they are elected to office

Evelyn (Evie) Zois Sweeney joined MHSA in 2011. Evie previously lobbied on behalf of a multitude of corporate, non-profit and municipal clients at Dykema Gossett, PLLC. She has extensive experience with state procurement, local government and the appropriations process, specifically higher education, capital outlay, corrections and general government.

Prior to joining Dykema, Evie served as a legislative assistant to the Senate Appropriations Chair and Clerk for the Senate Appropriations Committee and Joint Capital Outlay Subcommittee. In addition to shepherding legislative agendas through the process, she was responsible for monitoring several departmental budgets, including corrections, community health and general government.

Evie is a 2004 graduate fellow of Michigan State University's Michigan Political Leadership Program, a multi-partisan leadership training program. Evie also serves as co-chair of the gift acquisition committee for the Children's Trust Fund, is involved with Habitat for Humanity and serves on the Michigan Political Leadership Program's Finance Committee. Evie also had the privilege of working on Governor Rick Snyder's 2011 Inaugural Executive Committee.

Evie graduated from Michigan State University's James Madison College with honors and earned a bachelor of arts degree. She was a double major in International Relations and Sociology. Evie also served as a research assistant at St. Peter's College, University of Oxford, Oxford England.

Evie and her husband Matt reside in DeWitt with their daughter and son.

Ms. Purpuro is a government affairs advisor in the firm's public policy and law group. She focuses on energy, sustainability, and agriculture innovation policy.

Prior to joining the firm, Ms. Purpuro served as senior policy advisor to the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). She has more than 10 years of experience on Capitol Hill working for Senator Spencer Abraham (R-MI) as Deputy Chief of Staff, and for Congressman Jim Saxton (R-NJ) and Congressman Bob Davis (R-MI) as Legislative Director. Ms. Purpuro has advised Members of Congress on issues including the environment, energy, tax, interior, agriculture, and appropriations.

Ms. Purpuro has experience with energy efficiency programs including the Energy Star program where she assists clients in developing comments and engaging Members of Congress on Energy Star issues. Ms. Purpuro also works on emissions reduction policy including advocating on behalf of clients for policy to support carbon utilization. Her work on behalf of agriculture clients includes supporting establishment of an Office of Urban Agriculture as well as the Agriculture Advanced Research and Development Authority (AGARA) at USDA. In addition to her Capitol Hill experience, Ms. Purpuro served as Director of Government Relations for the American Forest and Paper Association, where she lobbied Congress on environmental and transportation issues.

AV-rated, Martindale-Hubbell
Fellow, America Bar Foundation
Fellow, Tennessee Bar Foundation
Fellow, Napier-Looby Bar Foundation
Fellow, Nashville Bar Foundation
Appointed by Gov. Lee to the Board of Directors, TPAC Management Corporation, 2019- Present
Appointed by Gov. Haslam to the Board of Directors, TPAC Management Corporation, 2013-2019
R.B.J. Campbelle Award, the University of Tennessee College of Law, 2012
"Nashville's Top 101 Lawyers", Nashville Post Magazine, 2011
Best Lawyers in America
    Energy Law, 2011-2022
    Government Relations, 2016-2022
    Administrative/Regulatory Law, 2022
    Communications Law, 2020-2022
    Lawyer of the Year, Energy Law (Nashville, TN), 2018, 2020, 2022
Mid-South Super Lawyers , Civil Litigation Defense, 2013-2014
J.C. Napier Trailblazer Award, Napier-Looby Bar Foundation, 2010
"In Charge," Legal Category, Nashville Post, 2010
Best of the Bar, Nashville Business Journal, 2003, 2009, 2020
Commissioner, Tennessee Public Utility Commission (Formerly Tennessee Regulatory Authority), 1996-2002
Deputy Legal Counsel to Tennessee Governor Don Sundquist, 1995-1996
Dr. Calvin Calhoun Distinguished Member of the Year Award, 100 Black Men of Middle Tennessee, 2006, 2014 & 2015.
Special Appointment by Gov. Haslam, Tennessee Supreme Court, 2013

Melvin was one of the first practitioners before the Tennessee Public Utility Commission to obtain approval of capital recovery riders under Tennessee's newly passed legislative initiative authorizing alternative regulatory mechanisms for public utilities.

Served a special appointment by Governor Bill Haslam to the Tennessee Supreme Court to hear a case from which four Supreme Court Justices recused themselves (Hooker et al v. Lt. Governor Ramsey et al.).

Successfully litigated on behalf of Tennessee's only publicly held water provider, a regional financial institution, a global wireless communications company, the nation's largest three-service utility, a national automotive finance company, and a coalition of Tennessee telephone cooperatives.

Successfully litigated on behalf of a coalition of over 200 retail fuel providers in an alternative fuel anti-competition case.

Commissioner, Tennessee Public Utility Commission (Formerly Tennessee Regulatory Authority), 1996-2002.

Deputy Legal Counsel to Tennessee Governor Don Sundquist, 1995-1996.

20+ years

We are available to discuss past achievements in many areas of government relations.

We work across branches and across all agencies of state government.

Ben Patterson grew up in Florence, Alabama. He is a graduate of the University of Alabama and earned his Ph.D. from the University of Alabama where he taught seminars in State and Local Government and American Politics until 1996.

Prior to joining Fine Geddie in 2004 he served as the Deputy Finance Director for the State of Alabama under two governors and helped guide both administrations' legislative efforts on fiscal issues. He also held the position of Chief Information Officer, overseeing the state's technology acquisitions in the late 1990s. During his tenures in state government, he gained a thorough understanding of government operations, procurement, information technology, state budgets and controls, and the complexities of Alabama's tax structure.

Ben Patterson also served as the Director of Government Relations for the Alabama Bankers Association from 2000 until 2003 where he was the principal advocate for the state banking industry. He began his lobbying career as a Manager of Legislative Affairs for the Business Council of Alabama in 1996.

Higher Education
Successfully assisted entities before regulatory agencies to achieve compliance.

Public Health
Worked with regulatory agency and broader coalitions to secure a positive recommendation from a Texas State agency which subsequently led to final passage of key legislation.

Local Government
Worked with the 3rd largest county in the country to secure vital legislation.

Regulatory Projects
Successfully assisted a national association and private companies in matters dealing with state franchise issues.

Telecommunications
Successfully assisted a publically traded company to secure passage of legislation affecting the Texas Universal Service Fund.

Energy
Successfully assisted client in passage of electric utility matters.

Ms. Leo has over 25 years of combined experience in federal, state and local government. Prior to joining the firm in 1996, Ms. Leo served as the Intergovernmental Relations Manager for the City of San Antonio. In that capacity, she had chief responsibility for managing federal, state and local matters on behalf of the City of San Antonio. Ms. Leo managed legislative and political activities at these various levels of government including Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC); state legislative matters impacting the City of San Antonio as well as interlocal agreements between the city and county.

She served as Chief of Staff for the first Hispanic woman elected to the Legislature, State Representative Irma Rangel, in which she managed all legislative policy, including appropriations, redistricting, healthcare, education and transportation. In this capacity, Ms. Leo also served as the Director of the Mexican-American Legislative Caucus and managed policy issues in behalf of the members of the Caucus. Prior to joining the House side of the Capitol, Ms. Leo worked in the policy division of Lieutenant Governor William P. Hobby, Jr. Ms. Leo's legislative career began as a Senate Messenger.

Ms. Leo serves on the Firm's Global Diversity Committee which promotes a diverse workforce and an inclusive firm culture. She is a Board member of the Senate Hispanic Research Council (SHRC), a non-profit research group that supports internships for college students in the offices of members of the Texas Senate. Ms Leo is a 9th generation Texan, and a member of the William B. Travis Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas.

20+ years

2020-2021 - Recognized as one of North Carolina's top 25 lobbyists in a survey performed by the North State Journal

2017 - Leadership Raleigh - Class of 2017, Raleigh Chamber of Commerce

2009-2011 - North Carolina Super Lawyers "Rising Star"

1999 - Fellow - Washington D.C. Institute of Professional Leadership, Education Policy Fellowship Program

David's government relations experience includes a diverse group of clients and a wide range of issues, which has allowed him to appear in and monitor legislation in most of the standing legislative committees and interim study committees. He also represents clients in public RFP and procurement matters. David has handled state appropriations issues for clients, as well as tax and finance matters. In his over 20 years of lobbying, he has cultivated good relationships with legislators and other government officials across state government without regard for political affiliation. David also works hard to develop relationships with legislative and state agency staff, for staff often can help direct an issue through the process.

David Ferrell is a government affairs attorney and registered lobbyist with more than 20 years' experience in state, local and executive branch lobbying, grass roots campaigns, and regulatory compliance. His government relations experience includes a diverse group of clients and a wide range of issues, which has allowed him to appear in and monitor legislation in most of the standing legislative committees and interim study committees. David represents clients in public RFP and procurement matters. He has handled state appropriations issues for clients, as well as tax and finance matters.David represents energy, electric, water, and other utilities in various matters, including regulatory proceedings, right-of-way acquisition, eminent domain, and general liability matters. He assists local governments and utilities with various legal, regulatory and legislative matters. David also has experience negotiating with renewable energy and other similar companies on behalf of utility providers. He regularly represents clients before the North Carolina Utilities Commission and other regulatory agencies.David's administrative and regulatory practice focuses on representing businesses and individuals before professional licensing boards, state and local regulatory and permitting agencies, and other similar agencies. David also serves as general counsel to North Carolina business and trade associations, as well as to state professional licensing boards.David was recognized in 2020 as one of North Carolina's top 25 lobbyists in a survey performed by the North State Journal. He was selected by the Raleigh Chamber of Commerce for their Leadership Raleigh program - Class of 2017. David was selected by North Carolina Super Lawyers "Rising Star" in 2009 - 2011. He is a Fellow of the Washington D.C. Institute of Professional Leadership, Education Policy Fellowship Program.